WCAG 2.1 · Level AA · Perceivable

WCAG 1.3.4 — Orientation

Content must not lock to a single orientation (portrait or landscape) unless essential.

WCAG 1.3.4 at a glance

Level AA · Principle: Perceivable · Added in WCAG 2.1. Level AA is the conformance target for the ADA, EAA, and Section 508.

What it means

Content must not lock to a single orientation (portrait or landscape) unless essential.

Who it helps

Users with mounted devices or motor disabilities who can’t rotate their screen.

Common failures

  • A page that only works in portrait and breaks in landscape

How to meet WCAG 1.3.4

  1. Support both orientations with responsive CSS
  2. Avoid orientation locks unless truly essential (e.g. a piano app)

How to test it

Manual — rotate the device and check usability.

Frequently asked questions

Is WCAG 1.3.4 Level A or AA?
WCAG 1.3.4 (Orientation) is a Level AA success criterion, introduced in WCAG 2.1. Level AA is the standard required by the ADA, EAA, and Section 508.
How do I test WCAG 1.3.4?
Manual — rotate the device and check usability.

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